Located in a corner building in the southern area of Amsterdam, Bonnie fully embraces the historical fabric of the building in which it is located. Together with high ceilings, two large arched windows with yellow glass become the defining ingredients of the new design, casting warm, golden light into the interiors. Studio Modijefsky's project divides Bonnie's spaces into three distinct areas on as many levels. The main bar, located directly at the entrance, gives the space a welcoming atmosphere: a simple symmetrical motif carved in oak on the front of the bar is inspired by the paneling of the original counter
Bonnie bar-bistro design celebrates the hospitality of old cafes in Amsterdam, amid drinks and stories
After 119 years of serving the neighborhood, Café Bos needed a deep renovation. "Drie Wijzen uit Oost" and Studio Modijefsky collaborated to transform this classic Amsterdam locale into Bonnie: a refined and traditional bar-bistro with all the necessary characteristic elements such as mirrors, classic tiles, old-style wood, and neon lights
Materials such as purplish-red marble with articulate veining, combined with mirror panels, oak wood, and warm grey marble add a contemporary touch to the space. The striking back bar repeats the curves of the window frames, glossy dark purple tiles as a cladding, and a coral-colored neon that arches to illuminate the bar's name: Bonnie. Below it, the mezzanine railing continues, transitioning from an almost two-dimensional object to its extruded version with integrated lighting fixtures and providing glass shelves and cabinets for the display of bottles
The wooden stairs, with a refined geometric railing in bronzed steel, lead to the basement and the mezzanine. Designed to be a continuation of the bar area, the basement floor is covered with the same tiles with square motifs in soft shades of yellow, green, white, and black that form a striking pattern. The walls are lined with orange tiles with hexagonal appliques, interrupted by mirror panels that blend beautifully and dictate the shape of the artisanal wood paneling. All the furniture, at first glance very traditional, has a contemporary touch. The custom ceiling chandeliers give this space a warm and luminous atmosphere, honoring that of the classic cafés of Amsterdam
For the mezzanine, a more flexible distribution was designed: a small bar, with materials echoing the main bar below, ensures that this area is perfect for private events. Under a soft fabric ceiling in rich burgundy tones, height-adjustable tables and wooden chairs make the place more welcoming. The paneling from the lower level continues upstairs, creating seamless aesthetics. The large arch of the original windows is projected onto the ceiling creating another playful light element
Outside, the striped curtains in shades of black, gray, white, and purple are adorned with large rope lights; appliques with vintage textures and gold leaf logos on the large windows add to the aesthetics of the old café. A larger terrace located slightly away from the building is surrounded by custom separés and planters that reflect the interior design. The outdoor furnishings are no less than the indoor ones: tables and benches in marble and wood create the perfect place to dine in the sun
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